Symptoms and Treatment for Reoccurring Urinary Tract Infections

According to Dr. Mark Allen, a Plano, Texas urologist, many people will suffer from a urinary tract infection, or a UTI, at some point in their life. It’s one of the most common reasons why teenagers visit a doctor in a given year. If you have not suffered from this type of infection then count yourself among the blessed few. Urinary tract infections are among the most common infections found in adults and are most commonly caused by bacteria. Seeking a cure for a UTI once symptoms appear is necessary so that the infection does not turn in to a larger problem.

The urethra is part of the urinary tract and is the body part in men and women that eliminates liquid waste (urine) from our bodies. Because the urethra is located in the genitals of both men and women, it often comes into contact with fluids that can harbor bacteria. The bacterium that causes the majority of urinary tract infections is E. Coli. E. Coli is most commonly passed through the bowel, but can come into contact with the urethra during sex, or if a woman does not clean herself properly after using the restroom (wiping from the front to the back). Other common causes of urinary tract infections are condom use, diaphragm use, and certain contraceptive pills.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Symptoms

Occasionally a UTI will not be accompanied by symptoms, but when symptoms of a UTI present themselves they are similar to the following:

A strong, persistent urge to urinate

A burning sensation when urinating

The feeling of being unable to empty your bladder

Passing frequent, small amounts of urine

Urine that appears cloudy

Urine that appears bright pink or cola colored — a sign of blood in the urine

Strong-smelling urine

Pelvic pain, in women

Rectal pain, in men

Every time an adult has a UTI, they are at an increased risk of having another and with every recurring UTI the risk for another goes up. The most common reason why an adult may suffer from recurring UTI infections is that they do not follow the full course of antibiotics prescribed by their doctor. Other reasons may be related to bad hygiene, frequent sex, not drinking enough water, or a change in diet.

Occasionally, frequent urinary tract infections are part of a bigger issue. If you are suffering from frequent recurring UTI infections and ongoing symptoms of a UTI, you need to see your doctor. At times a UTI is unaccompanied by symptoms. When this happens the bacterium which causes the infection of the urethra has time to spread to the bladder, and then onto the kidneys. Infections of the bladder and the kidneys are more severe and require a different type of medication. If you are being treated for a UTI but it recurs time and again, you need to speak with your doctor about cystoscopy to observe the bladder and kidneys and eliminate the concern of a bigger issue. Another cause of recurrent infections is a urologic abnormality. If the urethra is obstructed by anything such as a catheter, kidney stone, growth etc, UTI is extremely common and may be a result of the obstruction.

Symptoms associated with an infection of the kidneys and/or bladder will be more severe than symptoms of a UTI. They will include:

Upper back and side (flank) pain

High fever

Shaking and chills

Nausea

Vomiting

Pelvic pressure

Lower abdomen discomfort

Frequent, painful urination

Blood in urine

Burning with urination

How to Avoid a Urinary Tract Infection

If you have never suffered from a urinary tract infection, or if you have and want to prevent it from reoccurring, the following tips have proven to lessen the possibility of infection:

Urinating shortly following sexual activity (Men and Women)

Properly wiping after using the restroom (from the front to the back)

Prompt removal of diaphragm or condom after sexual activity

Drink plenty of fluids

Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding materials that do not allow the genitals to breath

If you feel like you may be suffering from a urinary tract infection you may try a number of home remedies, but a rule of thumb is to see your doctor the moment you feel pain, discomfort, or have concerns. The cure for a UTI is often an antibiotic. In order for this cure for a UTI to be effective, the medicine should be taken according to the prescription and not stopped halfway through treatment.

I work with 350 other fireman and hear all the horror stories about vasectomys and the pain. Dr Allen did a no scalpel vasectomy and when I say no pain I mean zero. Great bed side manners and really made it simple and relaxing. Can't recommend him enough!!

My personal experience with Dr. Allen has been very good. I've visisted his practice for several years and have been extremely satisfied. Recently he performed a surgery on me referred to as a TURP. It was a tremendous success. I am totally pleased with Dr. Allen and his practice. First class!

I gave Dr. Allen five stars because he deserves them! He is a very personable doctor and takes time to answer your questions. He also explains medical terms in plain language so you know what he means. I would recommend him to anyone needing a urologist.

Dr. Allen Reviews

I work with 350 other fireman and hear all the horror stories about vasectomys and the pain. Dr Allen did a no scalpel vasectomy and when I say no pain I mean zero. Great bed side manners and really made it simple and relaxing. Can't recommend him enough!!

"The best urologist in Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex, and I have been to many. Values your time and yet gives you plenty of his." - Carol N.